Hall of Famer Kirby Puckett Dies at 44

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) - "Kirby Puckett died Monday, a day after the Hall of Fame outfielder had a stroke at his Arizona home, a hospital spokeswoman said. He was 44..."

Damned shame. The man could play baseball. This was back in the days when gals on the side and steroids and uppers were winked at, and lots of talented young men fell by the wayside when tempted by so very much forbidden fruit.

Not Kirby. He had his love shacks, his booze, his dope, and never let it stifle his wonderful ability. 44. Whew. Glad I went for that physical.